South Africa’s national women’s team, Banyana Banyana, have once again made the nation proud with a commanding 2–0 victory over Ghana in their opening match of the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The reigning African champions showed why they’re still the team to beat on the continent.
From the moment the whistle blew in the scorching Moroccan heat, Banyana Banyana looked focused, disciplined, and dangerous—qualities that have come to define their rise in African football under head coach Desiree Ellis.
Photo Cred:News 24
Despite temperatures soaring above 35°C in Oujda, Morocco, Banyana Banyana were quick to assert control of the match. Their breakthrough came when Noxolo Cesane, earning her 50th cap, was brought down inside the box. Up stepped Linda Motlhalo, calm as ever, who buried the penalty to give South Africa a 1–0 lead.
Just minutes later, Jermaine Seoposenwe doubled the lead with a sharp finish off a well-timed ball from Lebohang Ramalepe. The 2–0 score line was well-earned, reflecting a team that knew how to exploit gaps and maintain composure in big moments.
Once again, Coach Desiree Ellis got her tactics spot on. She rotated key players without compromising structure. The experienced spine of the team—Motlhalo, Dlamini, Seoposenwe—balanced perfectly with young, energetic talents like Cesane. Ellis praised her players for staying calm and adapting quickly to the game’s momentum swings.
Ghana came out swinging in the second half. They struck the crossbar twice and forced Andile Dlamini into two critical saves. But South Africa’s defence—anchored by Bambanani Mbane and supported by tireless midfield tracking—held strong. The clean sheet was more than just a stat; it was a message: Banyana are here to defend their crown with intent.
This win wasn’t just about beating Ghana. It was about reminding Africa that Banyana Banyana are still the queens of the continent. The team played with purpose, unity, and grit. And most importantly, they played like champions.
As the journey continues, one thing is clear: South Africa’s women mean business—and they’re not done yet.
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